Urgent Climate Warning: Sydney Faces 3.8°C Temperature Rise, Severe Heatwaves, and Sea Level Surge by 2090
August 20, 2024The state of New South Wales warns that Sydney could face a temperature increase of 1.8°C by 2050, with potential doubling by 2090 if climate change is not mitigated.
New projections reveal that without urgent action on climate change, life in New South Wales will become increasingly uncomfortable and dangerous.
For the first time, the projections compare low emissions and high emissions scenarios, highlighting severe impacts under high emissions.
Under a high-emissions scenario, Sydney's average temperature could increase by 3.8 degrees, with an additional 20.4 hot days and a 35% decrease in average winter rainfall by 2090.
The new climate projections offer detailed data for decision-makers at a 4-kilometer resolution, emphasizing the importance of planning for extreme heat and its health impacts.
Dr. Kate Wylie emphasized that rising temperatures have increased instances of heart crises, domestic violence, and suicidal thoughts.
Extreme heat is already the deadliest climate-related threat in Australia, and projections show an increase in days over 35°C statewide.
The NSW government emphasizes the importance of reducing emissions to avoid more extreme weather events in the future.
Australia is currently on track to miss its net zero by 2050 target and needs to increase its renewable energy target to 87% by 2030.
According to a government climate report, sea levels in Sydney may rise by 56 centimeters by 2090 under the most pessimistic scenario.
Sydney, a postcard city of Australia, is considered vulnerable to rising sea levels caused by climate change.
These temperature increases pose serious challenges for coastal populations and those living near bushland.
Summary based on 3 sources
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Sources
The Sydney Morning Herald • Aug 19, 2024
State’s climate future revealed: Success is hot and failure is hotterThe West Australian • Aug 19, 2024
New climate projections drill down to suburban level